Are you unsure of what boots to buy for your wardrobe rotation, or where to start if you do not already have any? We’ve got you covered. Boots are available in a vast range of styles, and they’re not just for the winter. We have filtered out the noise and distilled the 10 essential silhouettes for any wardrobe.
These pairs of boots are essential for anyone looking to update their boot collection or replace an old pair. All boots provide full coverage of the foot, but their value in your wardrobe is determined by their details. These can range from classic styles like combat, equestrian or stilettos to more modern ones such as platforms, lugged soles, and Western silhouettes. All boots are versatile, so they can be worn from day to evening.
Platform Boots
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Platform boots are a great way to gain height. This style was popular in the late 2000s and early 2020s because of its thick, supportive soles that can be paired with either block or stiletto heeled shoes. It’s easy to find the right style for you thanks to its range of colors and texture. You can also coordinate or match bottoms or dresses with ease.
Block Heeled Boots
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The block-heeled boot is a classic for a good reason. The thick base of the style gives it a practical look that can be worn at the office, for cocktails or even off-duty. There are many different heights, from ankle-high to knee-high.
Western Boots
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Western boots add a special flair to the boot collection of any shoe enthusiast. Its origins in Wild West and workwear give it a rugged, yet bohemian look. The pointed toes, thick heels, and a variety of colors and details create a practical and dynamic shape.
Lug Sole Boots
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The lug-soled boot is the little sister to the classic combat boot, but with a chunkier and more exaggerated look. The Chelsea boot or zip-up style is easy to wear day to night. Rubber soles with thick ridges provide traction, height, and a subtle edge.
Combat Boots
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Combat boots are a closet essential, especially for giving an outfit a rebellious and practical finish. This is thanks to their roots in rock culture. The classic and versatile base for any outfit is a style with a flat, stacked or ridged bottom. Try lacing into a pair of shoes accented by spikes, chains or studs for a grungy look.
Over the Knee Boots
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Over-the-knee boot styles are a relatively new addition to the boot world, but they’re a great choice for any season. This tall-shafted boot style comes in many colors, textures and heel heights. It is known for its comfort and fuller coverage.
Stiletto Boots
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Stiletto heels are sexier and more elegant than any other heel. A thin, flat base can give any outfit, whether casual or formal, an elegant edge. This is especially true with taller shafts and, if you’re brave, even higher heels. Sharply pointed toes add a dynamic touch to any pair of shoes, whether neutral or colored.
Square Toe Boots
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The square-toed boot is the eccentric cousin of pointed or rounded boots. This style is perfect for those who want a look that harkens back to the early 2000s or ’90s. The narrower versions, with their thin heels, create a chic look while the flats and squared styles provide a more comfortable edge.
Equestrian Boots
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Equestrian boots are still in style, whether they’re worn on the racetracks or not. This is largely due to their versatile design with low heels and flat bottoms. No matter if they are smooth, paneled or have buckles and adjustable straps accents, all pairs will add a preppy, contemporary finish to your look.
Shearling Boots
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Consider adding a pair of shearling boots to your collection if you’re looking for a warm, cozy shoe that will keep you warm indoors and outdoors. The addition of fluffy, soft collars or trim to lug-soled shoes will instantly give any outfit a plush feel. Ugg’s new thick-soled range is lined with shearling and has a blanket-like feeling.
